Former NBA champion Brendan Haywood believes the Miami Heat must trade for nine-time All-Star Kyrie Irving to become true championship contenders. This comes as the Heat ride a two-game winning streak, including a 143-117 victory over the Atlanta Hawks on April 12, 2026.
The Heat were aggressive from the start of the summer. They completed a blockbuster trade for Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo, sending Tyler Herro, Kel'el Ware, Jaime Jaquez Jr., Kasparas Jakucionis and multiple draft picks the other way. They also signed veteran guard Klay Thompson after he cleared waivers, adding his championship experience and shooting for a bargain salary of $5.6 million. These moves have significantly reshaped the roster and raised expectations in Miami.
Haywood argues the team still lacks a definitive closer for playoff moments. "I know Giannis don’t really want that jumper in the last 5 minutes," Haywood said. He pointed to the need for a player who can create his own shot under pressure. "You talk about winning championship, your closer gotta be one of those ones. That’s why I brought up the name Kyrie." Irving, a career $347 million earner and future Hall of Famer, is seen as that elite late-game option. Haywood's analysis suggests the current roster, while talented, has a specific weakness in crunch time.
There is a potential pathway. Speculation suggests Irving could become available if the Dallas Mavericks struggle early in the season. The Heat have shown a willingness to make major deals and could put together a competitive trade package. Acquiring Irving would require significant assets, but Miami's front office has proven it is not afraid of big swings. The team's recent form shows offensive firepower, winning 140-117 against Washington and 143-117 against Atlanta, but the quest for a perfect roster continues.
The team's recent results are a mixed bag. Their last five games show a 3W-2L record (WWLLW). After a tough 147-129 loss to Boston on April 1, they beat Washington 152-136, then lost twice to Toronto (95-121 and 114-128). They have since responded with two strong wins. This inconsistency highlights the need for a reliable finisher that Haywood identified. Fans can track the team's progress and upcoming schedule on our [fixtures](/fixtures) page. The high-scoring victories prove the potential is there, but closing out games against elite competition remains the final hurdle.
